Diphtheria Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention Guide

Picture having a sore throat that rapidly becomes struggling to breathe, puffy glands, and a thick grey membrane in your throat. This is not a normal cold. It might be diphtheria, a life-threatening infection that, while uncommon nowadays because of vaccination, still represents a real threat if caught. Diphtheria won't be making headlines like COVID-19 or dengue, but it's still infecting communities where immunisation rates are low.

It is important to understand this disease not only to keep oneself safe but also to ensure public health safety. In this blog, we will be discussing what diphtheria actually is, the warning signs, when to look for medical assistance, and how best to prevent and treat it. 

What is Diphtheria Disease?

Diphtheria is a very infectious bacterial disease that mainly targets the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Corynebacterium diphtheriae causes the illness, which is widely recognised for releasing a strong toxin capable of destroying tissues and organs if left untreated. Although it largely spreads by airborne droplets or direct contact, diphtheria is also acquired through contaminated touching of surfaces or sharing personal accessories such as towels and utensils.

Historically regarded as a fatal childhood disease, diphtheria is less prevalent in those nations that have strong immunisation programmes. Outbreaks can still take place, though, particularly in areas of low vaccine coverage or disrupted public health services. Knowing the nature and extent of diphtheria can assist you in responding quickly and lower the risk of critical complications.

Diphtheria Disease Symptoms: Signs to Watch For

Symptoms of diphtheria usually take almost 2-5 days after contact. The time to show the first symptom can differ based on the type of infection: respiratory or cutaneous. Early detection plays a key role in getting adequate treatment.

• Sore throat and hoarseness: A sore throat, sometimes a hoarse voice or difficulty speaking, is one of the earliest signs of respiratory diphtheria.
• Thick, grey membrane in the throat: A characteristic symptom is a thick, grey film over the throat and tonsils, which may block breathing and swallowing.
• Swollen lymph nodes (bull neck): Enlarged lymph nodes causing swelling in the neck provides a typical 'bull neck' appearance, indicating extreme infection.
• Fever and chills: Mild to moderate fever, sometimes with chills, represents the body's reaction to the infection.
• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing: As the grey membrane thickens, it may occlude the airway, resulting in laboured or stertorous breathing, a medical emergency.

• Weakness and Fatigue: The toxin produced by the bacteria can cause overall weakness or fatigue caused by organ stress.

   

When to Seek Medical Care?

Diphtheria needs to be treated immediately. Delaying could result in serious complications, such as shortness of breath, heart injury, or even death. Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• A grey thickening of the throat
• Chronic fever with swelling of the neck
• Inability to breathe or swallow

One or all of the above Diphtheria symptoms, from the moment of contact with the person who is already infected. Prompt treatment and diagnosis significantly enhance recovery probability and ensure that transmission is avoided.

Causes of Diphtheria Disease

The bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae is the main cause of diphtheria. It produces a toxin after entering the body, which harms tissue in the respiratory system and passes through the blood to the other organs. The issue starts to become serious because of the toxin released by this bacterium.

Lack of Vaccination

People who have not been immunised with the diphtheria vaccine or who have missed booster shots are at increased risk. Vaccination offers protection for many years, and without it, even a single exposure can cause a full-blown infection.

Exposure to an Infected Person

Diphtheria is transmitted by respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Not only that, but even contact with the open sores and infected surfaces is a common way it is transmitted. Sharing a close living environment or working in a crowded setting raises the risk of exposure.

Weak Immunity

Individuals with weakened immunity due to age, medical intervention, or illnesses are more prone to diphtheria. Their immune system might not respond effectively, and the bacteria may multiply freely, causing harm.

Associated Risks

Taking the right cure at the right time does not only help treat diphtheria but also helps reduce chances of any other lethal complication associated with it. The risks become especially serious when the bacterial toxin is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Risks are:

• Respiratory arrest from airway obstruction
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
• Paralysis due to nerve damage
• Kidney failure
• Death, particularly in children and the elderly

The following complications point to the necessity for early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and sustained prevention.

Treatment and Management of Diphtheria Disease

Getting rid of diphtheria disease involves a choice of two treatments. The doctor will either neutralise the toxin or eradicate the bacteria. Supportive care is also essential, especially among patients with respiratory distress or cardiovascular complications.

Antitoxin Therapy

To neutralise the toxin, medical professionals administer a Diphtheria antitoxin into the body. It must be done early since it will not reverse damage that already exists as a result of the toxin. A skin sensitivity test will usually be necessary to make sure the patient doesn't develop an allergy.

Antibiotics

Penicillin and Erythromycin are the two antibiotics you can rely on when it comes to treating diphtheria. These are prescribed to kill the disease-causing bacteria and thwart the infection from spreading further. The medications are typically taken for two weeks, followed by examinations to confirm that the bacteria are no longer present in the body.

Respiratory Support

Upon an increase in the severity of the illness, you may even need to be hospitalised or need respiratory support. If the airway is obstructed by the grey membrane, medical interventions such as intubation or tracheostomy may be required to reestablish breathing.

Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up

Even after the initial treatment, patients need constant monitoring to monitor for cardiac or neurological complications. Follow-up cultures are drawn to verify that the bacteria are no longer there.

Health Insurance Support

Having a 91.2% claim settlement ratio and a network of more than 10,400 hospitals, Niva Bupa's complete health insurance solutions can extend hassle-free access to timely treatment, covering hospitalisation expenses and providing peace of mind during such health emergencies.

Prevention Techniques

Prevention of diphtheria is much easier than treatment. Vaccination and proper hygiene practices are the foundation of prevention.

• Vaccination (DPT or Tdap): Make sure you and your children get all of the diphtheria vaccines, including adolescent and adult boosters.
• Booster Shots: Immunity may decrease with time, so adults should get a booster every 10 years.
• Good Hygiene Practices: Regular handwashing and separation from contaminated persons can substantially decrease the spread.
• Isolation of Infected Patients: Isolation of infected patients in households and communities prevents the spread of diphtheria.
• Prompt Medical Care: Treatment and early follow-up testing of close contacts control outbreaks and stop prolonged dissemination.

Conclusion

Diphtheria is a contagious and preventable illness that remains a health risk in areas where vaccination coverage is low. With Diphtheria symptoms varying from sore throat to potentially fatal complications, early detection and prompt treatment are critical.

With the right vaccination, hygiene, and awareness, you can protect your family and community. By being aware and ready, not only do you lower your chances of diphtheria, but also make a contribution towards a healthier, safer community.

Disclaimer: The details provided above are intended for informational purposes only. For accurate medical guidance, please consult your healthcare provider. Health insurance benefits are governed by the terms and conditions of your policy. For further details, review your policy documents.

FAQs

Is diphtheria still prevalent nowadays?

Diphtheria is uncommon in well-established immunisation programmes but will sometimes still happen in unimmunised groups or where healthcare is poor.

Do adults get diphtheria if vaccinated as a child?

Yes, immunity can wane over time. That’s why booster shots are recommended every 10 years to maintain protection.

Is diphtheria contagious?

Yes, it spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. Infected individuals can transmit the bacteria even if they don’t show Diphtheria symptoms.

How effective is the diphtheria vaccine?

The DPT and Tdap vaccines are over 95% effective in preventing diphtheria when the full course is completed and maintained with boosters.

How can health insurance help in managing diphtheria?

Health insurance can ease the financial burden of hospitalisation, diagnostics, and treatment. With a reliable plan, you gain access to timely care, cashless hospital networks, and peace of mind, especially in critical infections like diphtheria.